Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism has formally partnered with WTM Spotlight Riyadh as the strategic partner for the event’s inaugural edition scheduled for September 8 to 10, 2026. The conference will be held at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center (RFECC) in Riyadh.
Event Objectives and Participants
WTM Spotlight Riyadh 2026 aims to connect international tourism businesses with Saudi entities while offering Saudi companies direct access to global markets. The three-day event will convene tourism authorities, hospitality firms, airlines, travel technology companies, investors, buyers, and industry leaders to explore investment and business opportunities in the Kingdom. It features a comprehensive conference program focused
on driving global tourism investment.
Saudi Vision 2030 and Tourism Goals
The partnership aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 economic diversification strategy. Tourism is a key pillar, with aims to raise tourism’s share to 10% of GDP by the end of the decade. Saudi Arabia targets attracting 150 million domestic and international visitors annually by 2030, supported by growing tourism infrastructure and increasing visitor numbers and tourism spending.
Official Statements from RX
Danielle Curtis, regional portfolio director for UAE at RX, described the partnership as a defining moment for the inaugural WTM Spotlight Riyadh. She said the event reflects Saudi Arabia’s ambition to enhance its role in global tourism. Curtis
emphasized the conference’s design to foster meaningful business connections, facilitate idea exchange, and give international travel professionals direct access to Saudi Arabia’s tourism market.
B2B2C Platform and Industry Collaboration
WTM Spotlight Riyadh functions as a B2B2C platform spanning the travel and tourism ecosystem. It brings together tourism authorities, investors, buyers, and industry leaders to support international partnerships, investment opportunities, and collaboration aligned with Vision 2030. The event aids in developing Saudi Arabia’s expanding tourism sector by promoting global tourism investment.
